Lance Corporal William Robinson

 

The only record of this man's service in the 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons Service Squadron appears in the Ballymena Observer of 28 January 1916, which noted that among the week's recruits was William Robinson of Ballinacaird, joining the Inniskilling Dragoons Ulster Division.

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland's Roll of Honour lists a William Robinson from Ballinacaird serving as a lance corporal in the New Zealand army, and another William Robinson from nearby Tamneybrack (Tamybuck) serving as a lance corporal in the 5th Lancers. An examination of the New Zealand service records reveals that in fact it was the man from Tamybuck who served in that force.

From this, the following can be concluded about the man from Ballinacaird. William Robinson was born on 21 December 1897 at Ballinacaird, Glenwherry, County Antrim, the seventh of ten children of farmer Robert Robinson and his wife Sarah (née McNeill). At the time of the 1911 Census he was living at Ballinacaird with his parents and his eight surviving siblings.

In the week ending 28 January 1916 he enlisted in the 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons Service Squadron (regimental number unknown, but around 320). He would have trained at the Inniskilling squadron's reserve base at Enniskillen. No record has been found as to whether or not he saw overseas service, but if he did, he may have been attached to the 5th (Royal Irish) Lancers.

 

Two of Robinson's brothers also served in the war, although records are not consistent as to their names and regiments. It appears, however, that they were twin brothers David Robinson, killed in action on 11 April 1917 while serving with the 1st Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers, and Robert Robinson, who served in the North Irish Horse.

 

This page last updated 23 August 2023.